Top 8 Rally Destinations Around the World: Fuel Your Wanderlust

The allure of rally racing extends far beyond the thrill of competition: it’s a chance to explore some of the most breathtaking and challenging landscapes our planet has to offer. From vast deserts to towering mountains, every rally destination holds a unique adventure waiting to be discovered. And yes, rally races are usually selected by category, difficulty level, and accessibility… but if you’re up for adventure, why not pick one by destination?

1. Dakar Rally – Saudi Arabia

The Dakar Rally, a legend in its own right, now traverses the vast and unforgiving deserts of Saudi Arabia. While the new destination seemed controversial at first, Saudi Arabia does offer endless dunes, scorching temperatures, and the ultimate test of endurance. Rally Dakar isn’t exactly for newbies – you do need to have a racing license and complete several other bigger rallies before you can even qualify, but if Dakar has always been your dream, Saudi Arabia awaits.

2. Rallye du Maroc – Morocco

One of the most brutal races out there, Rallye du Maroc isn’t for the faint of heart, but they do have an amateur class accessible to experienced riders. Morocco’s diverse terrain, from rolling dunes to rugged mountains, provides a thrilling backdrop for the race: sharpen your navigation skills and prepare for a technical challenge that will push you to your limits.

Image: Rallye du Maroc

3. Hellas Rally Raid – Greece

The biggest and most accessible rally race in Europe, Hellas Rally Raid serves up diverse terrain and mountainous landscapes making for a stunning backdrop for the race itself. Navigate rocky trails, conquer challenging climbs, and soak in the wild and rugged highlands of Greece.

Image: Actiographers

4. Africa Eco Race – Morocco, Mauritania, Senegal

Follow in the footsteps of the original Paris-Dakar Rally with the Africa Eco Race: this challenging event crosses three countries, offering a mix of desert landscapes, cultural encounters, and a true sense of adventure. Morocco, Mauritania, and Senegal await – allowing you to cross that iconic finish line at Lac Rose, Dakar.

Image: Africa Eco Race

5. Sonora Rally – Mexico

The Sonora Rally showcases the unique beauty of Mexico’s Sonoran Desert. Expect stunning canyons, towering cacti, and a sense of remoteness that will test your navigation skills and self-reliance. This six-day race is a serious challenge, and the scenery often seems almost Mars-like.

“For over ten years, the rally has provided the ultimate challenge between competitor, machine and terrain, testing navigation and off-road racing skills while being immersed into the beautiful and unique Sonoran landscape and culture. It has been a proven training ground for both professional superstars as well as privateer rally enthusiasts and as been the beginning of many successful Dakar dreams” – Sonora Rally ORGA.

Image: Sonora Rally/WestX1000

6. Finke Desert Race, Australia

Venture into the heart of the Australian outback with the Finke Desert Race, the country’s toughest rally. This race traverses vast deserts and rugged landscapes, and offers encounters with unique wildlife. Race from Aputula to Alice Springs in Australia and find what you’re made of!

Image: Aussie Bucket List

7. Mongol Rally

Organized by The Adventurists, a British adventure company known for its absurd feats and amazing ideas, the Mongol Rally isn’t your typical rally race – but it is, most definitely, an adventure.

Here’s the deal: to enter, you must purchase a motorcycle of 125CC or less, then cover 10,000 miles on it from Europe to the heart of Mongolia.

The plan?

“ Knowing where you’re going is boring. The Mongol Rally follows our ‘unroute’ ethos; you go where you please. Adventure doesn’t happen following a nob with a flag, It happens when you’re lost.

We want you to go your own way, make it up as you go along, improvise and get lost. We won’t tell you where to stop, where to visit, where to stay or what to do. Our only job is to tell you where the finish line is and wait for you to turn up a battered but better person.” – The Adventurists

If you’re all about the journey, the adventure, and the vastness of Mongolia rather than serious racing and rankings, the Mongol Rally is for you.

Image: The Adventurists

8. Transanatolia Rally – Turkey

Turkey’s diverse landscapes, from mountains to forests and historical sites, provide a captivating backdrop for the Transanatolia Rally. This event offers a blend of natural beauty, cultural exploration, and challenging riding with roadbooks improving each year.

Image: Transanatolia Rally

The World Awaits

Rally racing is more than just a sport; it’s a passport to adventure. Whether you’re drawn to the vast deserts of Africa or the rugged mountains of Greece, there’s a rally destination waiting to ignite your passion. So gear up, fuel your wanderlust, and embark on your next rally adventure!

Remember: This is just a glimpse into the world of rally racing destinations. Countless other rallies offer unique experiences and challenges. Do your research, choose your adventure, and let the spirit of exploration guide you.

Where will your next rally take you?